Smart Ways to Get Started on Digital Minimalism

The Internet has made a wealth of information and connections available to us in ways we never imagined. It’s allowed us to do our work more efficiently, meet people around the globe, and even meet people we’ve never thought we’d cross paths with. But what happens when we’ve allowed the pull of our devices to take over our lives?

Enter digital minimalism.

What is digital minimalism?

The concept was originally introduced by Cal Newport in his book Digital Minimalism: Choosing a Focused Life in a Noisy World. He defines it as “a philosophy that helps you question what digital communication tools (and behaviors surrounding these tools) add the most value to your life.” Putting it into practice, it’s clearing out digital noise with intention–even aggression–and optimizing the tools that matter.  

This might sound extreme for most of us, especially since we’re used to the constant flurry of notifications and updates. Some of us might even think it’s impossible, as we work with tech or social media full-time. But, as Newport wrote, technology per se isn’t inherently good nor bad–rather, the practice “rejects the way so many people currently engage with these tools.”  

What makes digital minimalism appealing for most is that it encourages lifestyle change–not just an occasional detachment from our mobile devices and tech. It’s leveraging our limited time and attention towards offline pursuits and even relationships.

How you can get started

The beauty behind digital minimalism is that doing it is completely up to you. Instead of having a strict set of rules for you to follow, you call the shots into crafting a digital minimalist plan that works for you. There is a set of principles behind the philosophy that can help you define how you can apply it in your own life.

• What are your core values? Our values are reflected in our digital values. What matters to you the most, and do your digital or online activities reflect them? Does scrolling through Instagram incite inspiration or envy? Is your use of Facebook fueled by genuine connection or the need for tea? Reflecting on your motivations will help you figure out what matters to you professionally, personally, and digitally–and discover which platforms you need to stop using.

• Take a 30-day break. After doing a thorough review, Newport suggests taking a month-long break from the things that don’t make an impact on your livelihood or your day-to-day life. For one, you might not want to stop using your health tracker or smart assistant, but you may want to consider cutting out Facebook on the regular. Taking the cold turkey approach also ensures that habits are implemented more quickly.

• Determine which tech you need back in your life. Once the 30 days are done, take the time to reevaluate which platforms you’re slowly reintroducing back. Then, block out and delete everything else that no longer aligns with your values or provides meaning to you.

Exercise healthy digital habits

As Newport wrote, “The best way to use tech is to use it to support things you care about, whatever that may be.” And with a fiber-fast Internet connection at home, you’ll learn more about what matters to you the most!